Thomas B. Reed, Parliamentarian

Thomas B. Reed, Parliamentarian

Thomas B. Reed, Parliamentarian

Excerpt

"Anything but the truth," is reported to have been Speaker Reed's reply to a congressman who sought his advice as to what to include in a memorial address on a deceased colleague. It is safe to say, however, that in his own case Reed would have demanded "the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth."

In the following study, admitting the difficulty of ascertaining the truth about any man, and especially about one whose life was spent in political controversy, the author has endeavored to let Reed tell his own story, explain his own course, and give his own opinions on the issues of the day. He has also attempted to show him as he appeared to his contemporaries. It is hoped therefore, that the reader may be enabled to make a truthful estimate of one of the great Americans of the last century.

The author takes this opportunity to express his appreciation of advice and assistance from many persons interested in the subject. In addition to Mr. Allan Nevins, whose services as editor of this series have been invaluable, he is especially indebted to the Hon. J. Frank Aldrich of Chicago, Ill., Dr. E. N. Allen and Mr. William A. Jones of Boston, Mass., Messrs. J. C. Hamlen and Frank D. Marshall of Portland, Me., Mr. John E. Lodge and Dr. Allen Johnson of Washington, D. C. Mr. Gerald G. Wilder, Librarian of Bowdoin College and Miss Ethel P. Hall of the Maine Historical Society have given valuable aid. He is also greatly indebted to his sister for clerical assistance, to his colleagues Professor Emeritus James F. Colby and Professor James P. Richardson for advice and criti-

A primary source is a work that is being studied, or that provides first-hand or direct evidence on a topic. Common types of primary sources include works of literature, historical documents, original philosophical writings, and religious texts.

A primary source is a work that is being studied, or that provides first-hand or direct evidence on a topic. Common types of primary sources include works of literature, historical documents, original philosophical writings, and religious texts.